Boat Capsizes Off Vietnam, Telugu Tourists KilledA tragic boating accident occurred near Vietnam’s popular tourist destination, Phu Quoc island, after a vessel carrying multiple Indian tourists capsized at sea. The incident has caused widespread grief across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with several Telugu tourists among those killed. Preliminary information suggests the trip was organized by a leading mobile manufacturing company as a reward tour for its distributors, recognizing their business performance in the Telugu states. Over 250 distributors were divided into groups and transported to Phu Quoc island via three separate boats.
The accident occurred around 10:30 am, when one of the three boats unexpectedly capsized in the sea. Estimates of the number of passengers aboard the affected boat vary between 32 and 80, according to different sources. Authorities are investigating whether rough sea conditions or a technical malfunction caused the vessel to overturn. Although rescue teams responded swiftly, strong winds and turbulent waves significantly hampered efforts, resulting in a considerable loss of life.
According to available information, around 18 people are reported to have died in the accident, with the majority of the deceased belonging to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Officials indicate that the death toll and details of victims may increase as more information emerges. Among the confirmed deceased, Jayashree from Machilipatnam died at the scene, while her husband Kishore is undergoing emergency treatment for serious injuries. Sridhar from Kadapa district was also confirmed dead, and search operations have been intensified for three other Andhra Pradesh tourists reported missing at sea.
The Indian Embassy in Vietnam responded promptly upon learning of the accident, issuing a statement on social media expressing deep shock over the incident. The embassy confirmed it is in continuous contact with Vietnamese authorities, the coast guard, and rescue departments, and is directly overseeing the search operations. Special control rooms have been set up at the Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City and in Hanoi to provide swift information and emergency assistance to affected families, with helpline numbers +84 36 281 7930, +84 91 552 37 14, and +84 33 452 0414 released for relatives seeking updates.
Phu Quoc island, known worldwide for its white sand beaches and clear waters, attracts lakhs of foreign tourists annually. The accident has reignited serious discussion over safety standards for tourist boats, the use of life jackets, and the implementation of advance weather warnings at sea. As anxious families await news of their loved ones, the central government and the Telugu state governments are coordinating with the embassy to expedite the repatriation of the deceased and ensure better medical treatment for the injured.